The specualtion carries added spice following Papiss Cisse's fallout with the Magpies over his refusal to wear a shirt sponsored by loan company Wonga, and the Senegal striker has not travelled to Portugal with his team-mates for the club's pre-season tour.

France international Gomis is the latest name to be linked with a move to St James' Park and Pardew is hoping to bring the former Saint-Etienne man across the Channel.

"We have expressed an interest in Gomis," Pardew told the Times. "We think that he's a player who has great potential. He's a French international who's played at the highest level for his club."

The 27-year-old has attratcted interest from numerous Premier League clubs, with Aston Villa and Swansea reported to be keeping a close eye on his situation.